Best castles around Kolsass are found in North Tyrol, Austria, a region known for its historical fortifications. Kolsass is primarily associated with Rettenberg Castle, a significant 14th-century ruin that offers a glimpse into medieval history. The village name itself is believed to be derived from the Rhaeto-Romanic words "col" (hill) and "sass" (rock), likely referring to the hill upon which Rettenberg Castle was constructed. This area provides a historical landscape for exploration.
Last updated: July 9, 2026
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Interesting architecture
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Hasegg Castle, Hall in Tirol First mentioned in documents in the 13th century, the castle was built to protect the saltworks, shipping, the bridge over the Inn and to monitor the old salt road. The name comes from the Pfannhäuser, in which brine was evaporated and on whose "Egg" (corner) the castle was located. In the 15th century, the castle was expanded into a princely residence. In 1567, Archduke Ferdinand II had the mint moved here. Text / Source: Hall-Wattens Tourism, Unterer Stadtplatz 19, 6060 Hall in Tirol https://www.hall-wattens.at/de/burg-hasegg.html
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Mint tower of Hasegg Castle, Hall in Tirol The old town of Hall is the largest preserved medieval old town in North Tyrol: its landmark is the mint tower of Hasegg Castle. Two special features of this charming little town are its old town and the mint with the mint tower. In 1477, Archduke Sigmund of Tyrol moved the princely mint from Merano to Hall, probably because of its proximity to the silver mines of Schwaz. In 1748, the Maria Theresa thaler was minted over 17 million times here and used as a means of payment all over the world. Today, the coin museum at Hasegg Castle tells of these times, and the associated mint tower offers you a wonderful view of the city. Text / Source: Tirol.tl https://www.tirol.tl/de/tirol/innsbruck-und-umgebung/hall-in-tirol/
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The Münzerturm, the legendary landmark of the city of Hall, can also be visited. There are individual tickets for the museum and tower, as well as a combined ticket for both. Personal tours or tours with audio guides are available in various languages.
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Freundsberg Castle is located on a steep hill south of Schwaz. It was built around 1150 AD as the ancestral home of the Knights of Freundsberg. Initially there was only a residential tower, in which parts of the original frescoes are still visible, but when Duke Sigismund the Rich acquired the castle and court in the 15th century, he had it converted into a hunting lodge. The beautiful castle church from the late Renaissance was only added between 1634 and 1637. The city of Schwaz has owned the complex since 1812 and had the local museum established in the castle tower in 1948: it offers an interesting insight into the cultural and economic development of the silver city. On the top floor, the old tower apartment takes you back to the time of the sovereign Duke Sigmund.
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From the Münzerturm, the city's landmark, you have a wonderful view over the medieval town of Hall to the impressive Karwendel massif. The tower is located in the grounds of Hasegg Castle. A visit to the tower is not only worthwhile for the view. There is also an exciting museum here that explains everything about the coin and its production. You can find all the information here: https://www.muenze-hall.at.
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The komoot community highly recommends several castles. Freundsberg Castle, located on a steep hill south of Schwaz, is a popular choice, known for its historical significance as the ancestral home of the Knights of Freundsberg and later a hunting lodge. Another must-see is Hasegg Castle in Hall in Tirol, famous for its mint tower and its role in protecting saltworks. Visitors also appreciate the historical remnants of Neurettenberg Castle Ruins, which was once a starting point for Emperor Maximilian I's hunts.
Yes, Hasegg Castle in Hall in Tirol is considered family-friendly, offering insights into its history and the mint tower. Additionally, the Water Wheels at Hasegg Castle (Hall Mint) provide an engaging historical and technical demonstration that families often enjoy. Schloss Mitterhart also offers a family-friendly atmosphere with its cafe and restaurant.
The castles around Kolsass offer a rich tapestry of regional history. Freundsberg Castle provides a glimpse into medieval life and the history of the Knights of Freundsberg, with a museum showcasing the cultural and economic development of Schwaz. Hasegg Castle highlights the region's importance in salt production and minting, including the famous Maria Theresa thaler. The Neurettenberg Castle Ruins connect to Emperor Maximilian I and the area's hunting traditions.
Yes, several hiking trails are available near the castles. For instance, an easy hike, the "Vordere Suspension Bridge – Neurettenberg Castle Ruins loop from Kolsass," takes you past the historical site. You can find more details and other hiking options in the Easy hikes around Kolsass guide.
Beyond exploring the castles, the Kolsass area offers various outdoor activities. You can enjoy cycling with routes like the "Weer Village Center – Terfens Cycle Path loop from Kolsass" which is an easy ride. For more challenging options, there are also difficult cycling routes available. Explore more options in the Cycling around Kolsass guide or the Road Cycling Routes around Kolsass guide.
Yes, some castles offer amenities. Freundsberg Castle has its own guest house where you can relax after a hike. Schloss Mitterhart also features a cafe and restaurant, conveniently located right on the Inn Cycle Path.
While largely a ruin today, Rettenberg Castle holds significant historical value for Kolsass. Built in the 14th century, it was once the residence of Knight Florian Waldauf. The village name 'Kolsass' itself is believed to be derived from Rhaeto-Romanic words referring to the hill where the castle stands, highlighting its deep roots in the area's identity. Although the guide features Neurettenberg Castle Ruins, which was built after the demolition of Alt-Rettenberg, the original Rettenberg Castle is central to Kolsass's heritage.
Absolutely. Freundsberg Castle, perched high above Schwaz, offers a wonderful view of the Inn Valley. The mint tower of Hasegg Castle also provides a great vantage point over the city of Hall in Tirol. Even the ruins of Neurettenberg Castle Ruins offer scenic views of the surrounding landscape.
Visitors frequently enjoy the blend of history and scenic beauty. The komoot community has shared 159 photos and given 220 upvotes, indicating appreciation for the historical sites and the views they offer. Many find the opportunity to explore well-preserved structures and significant historical remnants, like the mint tower at Hasegg Castle or the ancient walls of Freundsberg Castle, particularly engaging.
While the outdoor areas and ruins like Neurettenberg Castle Ruins are generally accessible year-round, specific opening hours for museums or indoor sections of castles like Freundsberg Castle or Hasegg Castle may vary during the winter season. It's advisable to check their official websites for current operating hours before planning a winter visit.
The duration of your visit depends on the castle and your interest. For a ruin like Neurettenberg Castle Ruins, a short walk and exploration might take an hour or two. More extensive sites like Freundsberg Castle or Hasegg Castle, especially if you include museum visits or dining, could easily fill half a day or more.
While the guide highlights popular choices, the historical landscape of Kolsass is rich. The original Rettenberg Castle, though mostly a ruin, is a significant local landmark that offers a glimpse into the region's deep past, even if it's not as extensively preserved as others. Exploring the area around Kolsass can reveal many smaller historical remnants and stories.


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